Have you driven a 1997 Dodge Dakota?

Average User Score

— This truck has been exelent. I have driven this truck over
200000km and I have had only one thing happen to it. the belt started to squel at about 197000km so I took it back to the dealer for the...
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I Will Buy Another One If I Am Able To.by 58benny

— I had been against Mopar products ever since I owned a 2001 Chrysler Town and Country mini van. I had a very bad experience with the quality of that vehicle. I had the opportunity to purchase the Dak...
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1997 Dodge Dakota Overview

Overall User Score

Despite the introduction of a new generation of the popular mid-size pickup, not much had changed for the 1997 Dodge Dakota. Its look was slightly more muscular, taking its cues from the successful Dodge Ram. But underneath the big rig-like exterior, it was really the same old Dakota drivers knew and loved.

Dropping the WS trim, the 1997 Dakota came now in base, Sport, or SLT models. The three wheelbase options remained unchanged (112-inch, 124-inch, and the Club Cab's 131-inch) as did the engines -- the 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder, 120-hp, the 3.9-liter 175-hp, V6, and the 5.2-liter V8 Magnum, which returned to its former 230-horsepower. 2WD, rear anti-lock brakes, and 5-speed manual came standard, with 4WD, 4-wheel ABS, and 4-speed automatic optional.

A new addition for 1997 was dual front airbags, reinforcing the Dodge Dakota's lead in safety. Inside, the dash got an update, but still looked plastic and cheap. The cab comfortably fit three up front with standard bench seats. Optional bucket seats made room for a well-designed center console with extra storage compartments. The rear bench seat was still basically unfit for humans over the age of ten or over the size of Mini-Me and was hard to access with only the two doors, but it did provide extra storage beneath the seats.

Aside from the poor gas mileage, uncomfortable rear seats, and wide turn radius, most drivers praise the Dodge Dakota's handling and hauling capabilities. The other big selling point is the cab's roominess and driving comfort. Reviews mention the excellent braking response and relatively quiet interior.

Updated Oct 13, 2006

What's your take on the 1997 Dodge Dakota?

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DodgeDakota97 More than enough room drives well. Be prepared to pay for it at the pump. My V-8 Mag sucks gas like its water. Be careful of the Trans im on my third so far in the 12 years I've owned mine. Overall great work truck.

Codes

I have a 1997 Dodge Dakota with the 5.2 engine.It has started to run rough and the check engine light is on.I do get trouble codes 12,21,and 55 but done know what they mean.I have put plugs,wires,cap,...